After more than a decade on Rwandan screens, Alain Gilbert Umuhire is stepping behind the camera to uncover secrets—and to shine a light on new talent. Widely recognized as Nepo in the hit television series Seburikoko and Kazungu in Umuturanyi, Umuhire has built a career that resonates with audiences across the country. Now, he embarks on a bold new chapter as a producer and director with the Impamvu (The Reasons) series.

Premiering on January 26, 2026, the series follows his debut production, A Virgin Girl, and marks a deliberate shift in his creative vision: to showcase new faces, empower emerging talent, and tell stories that challenge the status quo of Rwandan cinema.

A story of secrets, identity, and hidden truths

Impamvu is a gripping mystery drama that explores the hidden lives people lead behind the faces they present to the world.
At the center is Nyampinga, a young woman from Gisenyi, whose extended visit to Alain hints at motives far beyond a simple call. Beneath her calm presence lies a secret life as an undercover agent. Meanwhile, Babou, who seems to live a quiet, ordinary life, is also guided by undisclosed secrets.

Their lives intersect through layers of deception, all tied to the mysterious death of Laissa—officially said to have died from a heart condition, yet only one person knows the truth.
“Behind every familiar face lies a secret, and in Impamvu, nothing is as it seems,” Umuhire explains. “From undercover identities to hidden truths about Laissa’s death, the series keeps viewers guessing until the very end.”

The message behind Impamvu

At its core, Impamvu is a story about resilience, truth, and human complexity.
“Sometimes you fall,” Umuhire says, “but that doesn’t mean you stay on the ground. You get up and fight for your life.”

The series challenges audiences to question appearances, reflect on hidden realities, and recognize that truth, no matter how deeply buried, will eventually surface.

audiences should expect

Fans can look forward to fresh faces and new energy both in front of and behind the camera. Umuhire intentionally works with emerging actors and technical crew, providing them with meaningful opportunities to shine as Rwandan cinema continues to grow.

Beyond talent, viewers can expect a thrilling blend of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists, making Impamvu a series that is as emotionally engaging as it is mysterious.

Looking ahead: Future projects and vision

2026 promises to be a busy year for Umuhire. He plans to complete three more film projects, target film festivals, and produce a limited series. Unlike long-running projects with no clear conclusion, he focuses on stories that have defined endings, ensuring quality and impact.
At the heart of all these endeavors is a mission: to uplift and mentor new talent in Rwandan cinema, offering emerging creatives the recognition and experience they deserve.

A journey marked by challenges and determination

The road to Impamvu’s premiere was not without obstacles. Shot initially in 2025, the team faced the theft of production materials and backups, forcing a restart with limited resources. Injuries, delays, and unexpected setbacks tested the resilience of the cast and crew.

Despite these challenges, the team remained committed. “Now it’s time,” Umuhire says. “Support us, and we promise to deliver great work this year.”
Produced in collaboration with TDE (The Dynasty Entertainment) Films, Impamvu is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and collaboration in Rwandan cinema.

Cast and crew of Impamvu

Cast:

  • Nyampinga — Umutoni Wase
  • Alan — Alain Gilbert Umuhire
  • Babou — Abarikumwe Jean Claude
  • Kidumbari — Kirabo Elvine
  • Chris — Iradukunda Valens
  • DJ Bonny — Mutangana Bonaventure
  • Mama Kidumbari — Twagirayezu Didaciene
  • Raph — Dukuzumuremyi Shaban
  • Bianca — Muberarugo Shadia

Crew:

  • Director — Alain Gilbert Umuhire
  • Assistant Director — Ineza Angel Fidela
  • Director of Photography (D.O.P) — Bonaventure Mutangana
  • Assistant Camera — Sam Belick
  • Editor — Bonaventure Mutangana
  • Assistant Editor — Isingizwe Simon Pierre
  • Writer — Ineza Angel Fidela
  • Sound Engineer — Mugisha Hakim
  • Gaffer — Tuyizere Mousa

Impamvu is more than a series—it’s a bold statement about talent, storytelling, and the untold secrets that shape our lives. Premiering tomorrow, January 26, 2026, it invites audiences to unravel its mysteries, celebrate fresh talent in Rwandan cinema, and experience a story that will linger long after the credits roll. Don’t miss it.

Watch Impamvu’s teaser here:

https://youtu.be/ZH6PhabR0K4?si=ijR...